Okahandja's collapsed power poles repaired
Residents of Okahandja have voiced growing concern over the state of the town’s electrical infrastructure, citing recurring issues such as non-functioning streetlights, darkened streets and the recent collapse of an electricity pole following heavy rainfall.
The incident, which occurred in mid-January, has intensified public anxiety regarding safety and raised questions about the durability and maintenance of existing infrastructure. While some streetlights were repaired in September last year, many areas reportedly remain inadequately lit, contributing to residents’ fears.
In response to these concerns, CENORED’s Head of Corporate Communications and Marketing, Chali Matengu, said that electrical poles typically have a lifespan of between eight and ten years. However, he noted that external factors such as heavy rain, storms, termite activity, vandalism and vehicle collisions can significantly accelerate deterioration.
Matengu assured the public that inspections of electrical infrastructure are conducted on a monthly basis. “During these inspections, any damaged or weakened structures are identified and recorded. Based on the findings, necessary repairs or replacements are scheduled accordingly,” he said.
Immediate action
He added that urgent incidents, including damage caused by severe weather, vandalism or vehicle impacts, are addressed immediately to safeguard both equipment and human life.
Addressing safety measures, Matengu highlighted that CENORED adheres strictly to national electrical safety standards and internal work protocols. He also emphasised the importance of community involvement in promptly reporting hazards. Residents are encouraged to contact the CENORED call centre between 07:30 and 22:00 or to use the Okahandja standby number, which operates 24 hours a day.
Looking ahead, CENORED has allocated an operational expenditure budget of N$2 million for the 2025/2026 financial year to support maintenance, repairs and infrastructure improvements in Okahandja. Maintenance efforts in the first half of the financial year focused on the southern and eastern parts of the town, while work in the northern and western areas is scheduled for completion before the end of June 2026.
CENORED has also been implementing a long-term strategy to improve the reliability of electricity supply by replacing overhead lines with underground cables. This rollout, which began in 2023, has already been completed in several streets, including 2nd Street, 3rd Street, Dixon Godza Street, Josef Munetta Street and Zariua Street in the Nau Aib and Okakango Southern Plots areas.
Current projects
Current projects for this financial year are concentrated in the Shack Dweller area and Aurora Street in Nau Aib. However, Matengu acknowledged that cable theft and vandalism remain significant challenges, slowing progress.
Regarding the recent pole collapse, CENORED confirmed that the affected infrastructure has since been removed and replaced with underground cabling at a cost of N$322,420. The work was completed on Tuesday (17 February), restoring stability to the area.
“CENORED is committed to improving the reliability of electricity supply and enhancing service continuity,” Matengu said. “We remain dedicated to providing a stable and dependable power supply through ongoing investment in infrastructure, swift response to faults and collaboration with stakeholders.”
Residents continue to call for faster interventions, particularly in areas still experiencing poor lighting and ageing infrastructure, as concerns over community safety persist.
